The investigation into the famous Dharmasthal collective burial case in South Kannada district of Karnataka has taken a new twist. The SIT has started using the ground-penetrating radar (GPR) technology to get a clue of any remains buried under the ground. According to sources, this scanning is being done especially for site number 13. There were frequent obstacles in traditional excavations here.
Along with this, high-tech drones equipped with radar imaging have been deployed here. This device will prepare live pictures of the discrepancies below the surface, so that any of the suppressed object or residue can be detected. In order to maintain transparency, the complainant and his lawyer have also been allowed to be present in this investigation. This campaign is being led by SIT chief Pranab Mohanty.
Last week, this case was completely handed over to the SIT. Along with this, Crime No. 39/2025 was registered under Section 211 (A) of the Code of India. However, this case was formally given to the SIT on 19 July 2025 for investigation. But later after several other cases were registered, the SIT was given full command of the investigation.
Male skeletons and salt sacks found in excavation
On August 6, the SIT completed the excavation on the site number 11A of the shrine. Earlier, male skeletons were found at this place. Two days later, when the excavation proceeded, salt sacks were recovered. It is being told that these sacks of salt must have been used to smear the body quickly. After the excavation, the SIT team returned to the complainant with Belthangadi amidst tight security.
Investigation under the supervision of SIT chief Pranab Mohanty
The complainants and lawyers representing the witnesses arrived in a separate vehicle. This investigation is monitored by SIT chief Dr. Pranab Mohanty, DIG Anucheth and SP CA Simon. The biggest turn in this case came when the complainant himself went to the forest with the SIT. On his spot, the SIT had many important evidence during the excavation.
Bodies of women-nabbling girls buried
The complainant has been a cleaning worker. He has made many sensational allegations in his statement. Under this, he buried several bodies between 1995 and 2014. He was forced to do so. He has even claimed that the bodies of women and minor girls were also buried. There were many marks of sexual harassment on his body.
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